Texas House Bill HB738

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the entry of certain bond conditions into the Texas Crime Information Center.

Impact

This bill impacts state law by amending the Code of Criminal Procedure, specifically concerning the responsibilities of magistrates and sheriffs regarding bond conditions. By imposing strict timelines for the communication and entry of bond conditions into the TCIC, the bill aims to create a centralized database that standardizes the way these conditions are reported and managed across Texas. The requirement for immediate reporting and the provision of detailed information could assist law enforcement in enforcing bond conditions more effectively, thus enhancing public safety initiatives.

Summary

House Bill 738 aims to enhance the efficiency and reliability of entering bond conditions into the Texas Crime Information Center (TCIC). The bill mandates that once a magistrate imposes a condition of bond on an arrested individual, they must inform the sheriff of this condition by the next business day. This process includes providing personal information about the individual and details about the bond condition itself. The timely update of such information is crucial for maintaining accurate and accessible public safety records. The legislation is focused on ensuring that law enforcement agencies have current data to better manage bond conditions, potentially improving community safety.

Contention

While the bill seeks to streamline processes, potential points of contention could arise regarding the privacy of individuals whose bond conditions are entered into the TCIC. The inclusion of a broader array of personal information, such as social security numbers and driver's license numbers, raises questions about data security and privacy rights. Additionally, concerns could be voiced regarding the burden placed on magistrates and sheriffs to adhere to the new reporting requirements, particularly in areas with limited resources. Overall, while the intent is to bolster public safety, ongoing discussions will likely address how to balance operational efficiency with individual rights.